Category Archives: Singer/Songwriter

New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Ben Lazarus ‘Staying In’

Capturing the essence of the early days of the pandemic, ‘Staying In’ is the latest single to come from singer-songwriter Ben Lazarus. The song makes use of a wide range of instruments due to the pandemic affording Lazarus the time to play with everything in his vast musical “toy box”. Ben Lazarus grew up in Sunnyvale, CA, until April of 2005 when he moved to Los Angeles to attend film school, and where he has lived ever since. In March, the multi-instrumentalist signed with Napier Records, a label founded by Academy award-winning filmmaker Andrew Napier.

‘Staying In’ is a catchy folk hued indie tune from Ben Lazarus. The artist takes a bright buoyant melody and adorns it in twanging guitar, steady rhythms and intricate percussive elements. ‘Staying In’ provides a cheery tone and positive outlook to the pandemic lockdowns while soft bells and a layered tapestry of guitars create a sweet and charming backdrop for Lazarus’ unique vocal coos to drift upon. ‘Staying In’ is a quirky ditty that showcases the vibrant, irresistible songwriting of Lazarus.

Speaking of his new single, Lazarus explains “This song features the drumming of my late little brother John, and playing over his tracks makes me feel closer to him.” 

Stream ‘Staying In’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Fintan McKahey ‘Lost Balloons’

Cork-based singer-songwriter and producer Fintan McKahey returns with new single ‘Lost Balloons’. The song was recorded and produced by Fintan in his newly built space, Ivy Hill Studios. Built by Fintan and his team during COVID-19, the studio offers a variety of audio and visual services. An active artist since 2016, his 2019 sophomore EP “God Games” received critical acclaim as did his several 2020 singles, achieving national radio play and press acclaim. He has performed in major venues across the country, including support slots for the likes of The 4 Of Us, The Scratch, Junior Brother, and Roisin O. 

‘Lost Balloons’ is a nostalgic soulful tune that displays the emotive musicianship of Fintan McKahey. He spreads a dreamy melody over warm guitar while a steady, soothing beat bubble’s throughout. McKahey has a mesmerising ability to capture emotion through his poetic songwriting and supple arrangements. Within ‘Lost Balloons’, he reflects on how the pressures of modern life can get overwhelming through the medium of delicate atmospherics and gentle guitar refrains while his warm, rasped vocals coo with a hushed tenderness throughout. ‘Lost Balloons’ is an absolute joy to listen to. The track is a time-stopping, emotional and satisfying tune that beckons repeat plays.

About the track, Fintan says, “‘Lost Balloons’ is an ode to the slow life, a gentle reminder to take a breath and let life unfold at its own pace. Letting go can be the most liberating feeling there is.”

Stream ‘Lost Balloons’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

FYA FOX ‘Need It’

Returning from a slight breather after the recent release ‘Sunset’, FYA FOX is back with her new single ‘Need It’. FOX’s previous two singles ‘Body’ and ‘White Lies’ have already been supported by 2fm, Today FM and many more. ‘Body’ was added to the BBC Radio Ulster ‘Where Music Matters’ playlist which features ten new tracks across the BBC Radio Ulster playlist each month and her debut, ‘White Lies’ received its world exclusive with Radio 1’s Gemma Bradley on BBC Across The Line. As well as being added by Hattie Pearson to the influential Co-op Edit UK playlist, her music has featured on a number of prestigious Spotify playlists including ‘Fresh Finds’ (750K followers).

‘Need It’ is an impressive tune that pulsates with FYA FOX’s unmistakable alternative pop sound. The song simmers with tense electronics and sultry bass lines as FOX coos over the infectious melody creating an intoxicating heart rushing soundscape for listeners to immerse themselves in. With soft keys chiming between dense electronic palpitations and sticky beats ‘Need It’ blossoms to become a power-pop anthem brimming with vigour. FOX creates expressive tunes that boast irresistible hooks and crisp production. She is an immensely talented artist, and ‘Need It’ perfectly displays her infectious musicianship and deft musical prowess. Press play and enjoy.

Stream ‘Need It’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

JyellowL ‘See Me Finish’

JyellowL has released his new single ‘See Me Finish’, produced by Nigeria’s Tee-Y mix. The song is taken from his upcoming EP ‘shades of yellow’. This follows his critically acclaimed debut album 2020 D|vision, which was nominated for Irish album of the year 2020 at the RTÉ Choice Music Prize Awards and debuted at number 2 on the official iTunes album charts as well as number 1 in the hip hop category. JyellowL is emerging into this changing world of 2021 with a string of new releases and collaborations coming to fruition, having performed a dynamic and standout set as part of Extraterrestrial at the National Concert Hall, an event celebrating Black Irish identity. The next phase in his blisteringly fast rise is envisioned as ‘Yellowszn’. Listeners can expect a series of EP’s that JyellowL is calling ‘shades of yellow’ and which will reveal and explore new sides to him musically that haven’t been shown before.

‘See Me Finish’ is a refreshing display of JyellowL’s captivating musicianship. With light drum beats weaving between a sparkling wave of afro-esque melodies, the track exudes an infectious and sun-kissed persona. JyellowL showcases his evolving sound through this rich, full-bodied tune; soft keys and tropical hues shimmer through a warm guitar refrain to create a radiant backdrop while his smooth vocals effortlessly narrate over a catchy melody. These subtle musical elements are joy to listen to and reveal more about the artist’s musical aesthetic with each subsequent listen.

‘See Me Finish’ is an easy on the ears gem that oozes JyellowL’s melodic wizardry and eloquent lyrics. Looking forward to the upcoming EP ‘shades of yellow’. 

Speaking about ‘See Me Finish’, JyellowL said: “I was in Nigeria for what was meant to be a short trip but due to covid restrictions I ended staying for two months. So I decided to tap into the music scene there and I got a crazy wave of inspiration from the incredible producers and artists I met. Tee-Y being one of them, we locked in and created some beautiful music. In Nigeria, we have an expression called “see finish” which means over familiarity by making yourself too accessible to someone, being too kind, etc essentially being taken for granted and that’s a red flag. So saying “she don see me finish” means the girl in question had over familiarised herself with me to the point of taking me for granted, my kindness being taken for weakness, my presence losing novelty. I can’t have that, so I had to cut her off.”

Stream ‘See Me Finish’ below


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Bobbi Arlo ‘Fever Thoughts’

New wave pop artist Bobbi Arlo has released her new single ‘Fever Thoughts’. 2021 started off with a bang for the artist with the announcement that RTÉ 2FM selected her as one of their ‘Rising Acts’ for 2021 and the release of her previous radio smash tune ‘Feel It’.

‘Fever Thoughts’ is a fizzing example of Arlo’s irresistible sound as she spreads an earworm melody over an intense backdrop of electronic pop to create a refined and effervescent bop for listeners to enjoy. The intoxicating soundscape mirrors the excitement within the lyrics which discuss a night out in the city. The songs heart-racing effect is aptly expressed through the tracks pulsing beats that ripple through a flurry of synths and swirling electronics creating a dance-infused and muggy backdrop for Arlo’s sweet reverb laced vocals to drift over. Arlo is always pushing her sound to the next level, and ‘Fever Thoughts’ is a spectacular example of this.

Filled with intense muggy rhythms, futuristic electronic embellishments and an exhilarating wall of sound, ‘Fever Thoughts’ is a fantastic new single from Bobbi Arlo. 

Speaking about the song, Bobbi Arlo says “Fever Thoughts is the product of me craving those special nights out. I wrote the song after reminiscing about my first night in the big City and how mesmerising and fun the whole experience was. I really wanted to captivate the energy and excitement I felt that night and put it into a song”

 Stream ‘Fever Thoughts’ below


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Luka Powell ‘Hindsight’

London singer-songwriter Luka Powell has released her debut single ‘Hindsight’. Born in Derby but raised in Bahrain, Australia and the UAE, Luka cites her exposure to a divergent range of cultures and music for her eclectic sound. While Luka’s Australian upbringing is notable in her distinctive, aggressively joyful, indie-rock sound the Southern Hemisphere seem to do so well, her musical taste has always been rooted in London where she now resides. Learning to sing busking on the streets of Brisbane, Luka gained traction on Soundcloud amassing over 180k streams which led her to perform at festivals including Virgin Radio’s Redfest in Dubai, appearing on international radio shows and performing for the Australian Prime Minister.

‘Hindsight’ showcases the effervescent sound of Luka Powell through refined musicianship and deft production. Teaming eerie soundscapes with desert pines on guitar, the artist creates a lofty and edgy backdrop for her lush pop melodies and warm vocals to flourish in. The track is well crafted and builds superbly through haunting backing vocals, choppy guitar embellishments and intricate percussive elements that create a smoky and dark undertone throughout. Exuding an indie rock n roll persona mixed with soft country tones and sweet pop sensibilities, ‘Hindsight’ is an enticing and compelling debut that marks Luka Powell an artist to keep an eye on.

Stream ‘Hindsight’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Taylor Mas ‘Tonight’

Irish Singer/Songwriter Taylor Mas has released her new single, ‘Tonight’.Taylor Mas released her debut single ‘Bad News’ at the end of last year. It has been streamed over five thousand times on Spotify and was added to the RTE Radio 1’s Recommended playlist along with a Q&A feature on RTE entertainment. Mas has had many years of experience in the music scene in Ireland. Having completed a level 8 Degree in Songwriting at BIMM Dublin, she has performed vocals for many different artists and bands across Dublin in multiple different recording studios as well as performing at Electric Picnic, Longitude, Knocken Stocken and many more Irish music events and gigs. Her previous single, ‘Me Again’ got its first play on SPIN 1038 and was added to the RTE Radio 1’s recommendations list in its first week of release.

‘Tonight’ is a bubbling alternative pop tune that boasts Taylor Mas’ deft musicianship. Mas creates a cinematic and compelling wall of sound to accompany heartfelt lyrics, which deal with the scenario of overcoming mental manipulation from a partner or friend. With buoyant rhythms and heavy electronic beats creating a dance-infused soundscape, Mas maintains an upbeat, uplifting tone throughout while icy keys and ethereal synths create a sense of innocence and provide a refreshing release from the muggy beats. Showcasing a catchy melody and pristine vocals, Mas crafts a shimmering and emotionally impactful song ready for repeat plays. 

Stream ‘Tonight’ below 


Author: Danu

Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Electronic, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Noah Elliott ‘Who Takes The Prize’

Photo Credit: Noah Elliott

Noah Elliott has released his new single ‘Who Takes The Prize’. The Oregon native amassed 500k Spotify listens after releasing a string of self-produced singles created in his college dorm room. After graduating from the University of Miami and wandering around Asia for 6 months, Elliott moved to LA. There, he teamed up with Dylan Bauld (Halsey, Bea Miller, flor) to create his debut EP ‘Songs For The Optimist’. ‘Who Takes The Prize’ is the 5th single off the record.

‘Who Takes The Prize’ is a dark alternative pop tune lathered in rich electronics and infectious dance vibes. Elliott’s smooth vocals croon over intricate rhythms and push-pull electronic effects that venture into EDM and house elements at times. With lush synths weaving between bittersweet melodies, Elliott displays his engaging and catchy musicianship through this shadowy yet enticing gem. Elliott has a knack for creating infectious melodies and wrapping them in dense textures and tones to create eargasmic tunes that are sure to have you bopping and dancing in no time, and ‘Who Takes The Prize’ is the perfect example of this.

About the track, Elliott explains: “When I listen to this track, I can’t stop myself from dancing. I hope it has the same effect on you.”

Stream ‘Who Takes The Prize’ below 


Author: Danu

Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Luz ‘permanent +1’

Photo credit: Katie Silvester

Irish artist Luz has released her new single ‘permanent +1’, via global artist services company Platoon. Recorded between Dublin and London with producer JMAC (Haux, Rosie Carney, Matilda Mann), the track is Luz’s fifth release, following previous singles ‘counting houses’, ‘we’ll be fine’, ‘i’m lonely’ and ‘the author,’ the latter of which has recently been featured in this year’s series of Love Island. Since being played on the show the track has doubled its daily streams, hitting Number 11 on Shazam’s charts, as well as re-entering the iTunes chart. 

‘permanent +1’ is a beautifully uplifting tune that boasts the emotive and melodic songwriting of Luz. Her smooth vocals glide upon the soothing melody while a delicate piano and ethereal soundscape flesh out the song’s backdrop to create a heartwarming and wholesome tune for listeners to indulge in. Well crafted and filled with heart-fluttering joy ‘permanent +1’ is a sublime and intimate new tune from Luz that is a joy to listen to again and again.

Speaking about ‘permanent +1’, Luz says: “’permanent +1’ is about the person in your life who is always there. Yes, they are the person you take with you to your cousin’s wedding, to a birthday party and to your family’s Sunday dinner. But they are also the person you take grocery shopping, who comes with you to a doctor’s visit and who helps you do your laundry.”


Stream ‘permanent +1′ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

BECAH ‘Reminders’

Photo Credit: Joe Laverty


Lurgan based indie alternative artist BECAH has released a stunning single ‘Reminders’  and accompanying video. The song is the second single from her upcoming debut EP ‘Freak’, due out later this year. Having cultivated her art playing the local scene over the last number of years, BECAH has in that time secured support slots for renowned acts including that of Aslan, The Four of Us, and Brian Kennedy, most recently playing on the same bill as Brian Houston, Sam Wickens and Amy Montgomery.

‘Reminders’ presents BECAH’s emotive and utterly captivating songwriting through moving soundscapes and awe-inspiring musicianship. The song is filled with rippling basslines, punctuated beats and subtle whirls of electronics that swoop with cinematic tendencies between lamenting guitar refrains. BECAH’s slightly rasped voice drifts between captivating tones and breathtaking melodies as she discusses the aftermath of a toxic relationship through tender and heartbreaking lyrics, “I’m trying hard to be myself See I got torn up by somebody else”. BECAH is a talented musician. The artist’s ability to aptly express emotion through well crafted and beautiful musicianship is admirable. ‘Reminders’ is a spectacular example of this.

About the song, BECAH says “I wrote ‘Reminders’ in the aftermath of a very toxic relationship with a past girlfriend. The coinciding music video, filmed by Chris McCann and directed by John Dynes and Chris McCann, presents a glimpse into that story – the good times I had with her in the beginning, to its violent turn. The lyrics speak of the struggle I had to feel like myself again, and how all my attempts to push away all the little details and memories of that time felt futile.”

Watch the video for ‘Reminders’ below 


Author: Danu